As November sets in, we need to prepare ourselves for the winters. This year (also!) has gone in a blink of an eye, and we are all set to welcome 2018. However, even though this year has come to an end, the interior decor trends for winter 2017 are setting in.
We think every Indian homeowner loves a cosy home. Winter season is all about Ek garam chai ki pyali ho aur ghar humara cosy ho… In India, we do not have a freezing climate, though there are cold climates with a lot of diversity. Each part of our country has different levels of the cold weather, and hence, each home needs preparation according to the state it belongs to.
Read on as we list down some of the best ways you can make your home winter-ready!
For Extremely Cold Climates as in Kashmir And North Eastern States
- Insulate all the way.
When it gets extremely cold and snowy, you need to maintain more heat into your homes. You can do this by installing heaters and getting your home insulated professionally. It is one of the best ways to get protection from the snowy climate outside.
- Keep the warmth inside.
If you have a fireplace, stock up some quality wood and prepare the home for some chilly nights. Get thick and heavy, woollen carpets for your floor. If there are any cracks or holes in your roof, get them fixed, so your insulation remains intact. Moreover, you can roll up thick pieces of clothes and place them on the ground fixed to the door to prevent the breeze from entering inside.
For Very Cold Climates as in Kutch, Punjab, Haryana, etc.
- It’s time for some layers.
Just like how we layer clothes to keep our body warm, our homes also need layers, so it stays warm. Spread warm rugs and carpets across the flooring. You could use different materials, textures, and colours over one another to give a dimension to your home while it covers the cold floor.
- Make way for vertical layers.
Layering also works fabulously with drapery. You could layer your curtains by adding a new rod for thicker, textured curtains. It will not only prevent the cold breeze from entering your home but will give a sophisticated look entirely! You could layer your furniture by placing extra cushions or a fuzzy blanket. You can also make space for a coat-stand near the door so it is easy to get your hands on some winter wear as you leave or enter your house.
For Moderately Cold Climates as in West Bengal, Odisha, Jharkhand, etc.
- Cocoon up your home.
Preparing your Indian home for winter is all about keeping the warmth inside. If your walls need a re-paint, use this opportunity to go for warm yet dark shades. Shades of maroon, deep blue, shades of brown, orange or purple are some of the colours you can incorporate into your homes. If you don’t want to paint your home, don’t worry. You can get bed sheets, curtains or cushion covers of dark colours. It will put up a cosy ambience, just perfect for the season. You can also go for a change in furniture. Sink into a new sofa set or a poofy chair in warm, textured colours.
- Keep your vents closed.
Though it does not get very cold, keep your exterior vents closed. Your bathroom window, dry-balcony window, etc. These windows are such placed that due to the darkness or dampness of the rooms, cold breeze enters via them and stays in, cooling the room and its floor.
For Cold Climates as in Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Chattisgarh, etc.
- Bring in some sunshine!
In this season, we crave for sunshine like we crave for hot tea! So make way for some sunshine. Pull up curtains during the day and keep windows open whenever the sun is out. You can also place framed mirrors on the walls sun rays touch. It will reflect the light, spreading warmth in the house.
- Allow the plants to absorb water completely.
If you have a garden or a well-planted balcony, allow the plants or grass to absorb water entirely before watering again. It will make sure cool breeze or dampness does not retain, to avoid further cooling. During winters, plants do not need much watering too, unlike summers.
For Cool Climates as in the South Indian States
- Let the lights do the talking.
Since winters aren’t very chilly here, you don’t really have to worry about doing anything special. So why not celebrate?! Winter is perfect to bring out those fancy lights and lampshades. Christmas is coming up, remember? Lights brighten your home, creating a warm and intimate ambiance. Incorporate pretty lamps, lanterns, candles, tiny hanging lights, etc. around the house. You can always invite your spouse to a romantic dinner on your balcony.
- Keep your kitchen cabinet stocked.
Keep your kitchen stocked with ingredients like hot chocolate powder, cinnamon, ginger, honey, dry fruits, Amma’s special laddoos, etc. These food items provide warmth to our body. Place them in such a way that even children can reach the shelves. This will ensure that everyone eats food that provides warmth internally as well.
To conclude, these were just a few quick, applicable tips that can help you keep your Indian home cozy and comfortable this winter- but this list isn’t exhaustive! If you require any further assistance or suggestions, don’t forget to start the discussions in the comments!
